Plan would eliminate homelessness in Wisconsin

The Department of Commerce has a plan to eliminate homelessness in Wisconsin within a decade.

The proposed 10-year plan from the agency would help get homeless people off the streets with a comprehensive plan. Commerce Department spokesman Tony Hozeny says it will not be an easy process, but it can be achieved with the right resources.

Hozeny says the plan includes improving early intervention programs, providing medical assistance, and offering employment services. He says there are dozens of steps to be taken to achieve that goal.

Hozeny says it's in the state's best interest to raise public involvement and awareness about the problem. He says reducing homelessness improves the overall quality of life for those individuals and communities across the state.

Hozeny says it's unclear how many homeless people are living in the state, since the number tends to change throughout the year. However, part of the plan is about establishing a better idea of how large the population is.

The plan was developed with the help of the Governor's Interagency Council on Homelessness.